Why we both had to let go…

 
Dear friends, I know that many of you are wondering why we had to let go our dearly beloved Belle. Although we knew the day was coming, it still happened very suddenly.
Today it’s 3 weeks ago that Belle passed away and the past weeks, I wasn’t able to write about the reason why and it’s still very hard since it brings so many deep emotions.

It started in the weekend before and then it went so unbelievable fast…. First, I have to go back in time a little bit. Maybe you remember from videos or pictures that Belle always used to eat her food from my finger, that’s how she always liked it and well, me too. It was always such a joy to watch her enjoying her food.

 

 
About 2 weeks before her passing, suddenly she couldn’t eat the way she always did. Because her tongue was more on the side of her mouth, she wasn’t able anymore to lick the food from my finger. I felt desperate because I realized that this maybe already meant the end. I looked at her and asked her what I could do to help her. A familiar expression appeared on her face, the one when I can see her thinking, my wise little warrior. All of a sudden she bent forward and began to lick her food all by herself! A miracle! I laughed with all my heart and at the same time I saw her smile and felt her spirit that shone so brightly. She wasn’t ready yet.

On Saturday, April 22, I noticed that a bigger part of her tongue was hanging out of her mouth. It was, and still is, such a shock how fast this tumor grew, so very aggressive. And the fact that we could do nothing about it to stop it, was the most heartbreaking feeling ever. Of course, I did everything I could, in consultation with vet Paula who is specialized in cancer, but still, I felt completely powerless when I saw the enormous growth rate of the tumor.

 

 
To see my little girl, my everything, to feel this enormous love for her, and at the same time not being able to help her, was devastating…
That evening she had more difficulties with licking her food. I hoped it was just once, maybe she wasn’t so hungry. But the next morning, it was still the same. She could still eat, but that day the amount of food she could eat was much less than usual. And she was already very skinny, the cancer ate away all the energy of the food, of her body. She was losing weight fast.

On Monday morning, it became even more difficult for Belle to eat. I tried everything to help her, also with a syringe, but it didn’t work. At one moment she leaned against my chest and she laid her head against me in a way that I, with a heavy heart, knew what she was telling me.
It was that moment I knew I had to make the most difficult decision.
I called Paula and first I thought we had to make an appointment that same day, but Paula said we could have one more day together and then it would be time. Belle was still okay and that was also the hardest part of it, that she was still alert and happy, still the same, my little beautiful Belle.
I had no idea how I could possibly let her go the next day when she was like this…

Tuesday, on our last day together, as you all know, we went to the beach together. One more time. And it was magical…
On the way to the sea, I sensed that Belle seemed more tired, but when I opened the door of our car, she stuck her nose in the air and smelled the scents she always loved so much. And standing in front of the sea, with Belle in my arms, she was intrigued as always by all the sounds and smells.

 

 
We looked out over the sea, but most of the times I looked at her, feeling a love so deeply that words could never reach. I was, and still am, forever and ever, so immensely grateful and happy that she was my beautiful, most precious girl.
On our way home, we also stopped by a wonderful tulip field where we had some very special moments as well.

At home, I needed to lie down for a while, so we rested in bed together, like we always did for so many times. It was then that I noticed a change in Belle, she was all of a sudden so very very tired. I had never seen this before. And although it was very hard for me to see and feel, I knew that she was preparing to go…
We always communicate with each other in our own special way and it was evident that she wanted this last day with me, to experience the sea one last time, to fully feel all these very special moments on this day in our body, heart, and soul together.
And then she told me it was time. We both knew that it was exactly the right time…

One day I will write more about the moment we had to let go of each other.

Irene, Little Belle’s mom ♥

 

 
P.s. I’ve received questions about why the tumor couldn’t be removed. Of course, I discussed this with Paula very thoroughly, but the fact was that the tumor was also growing in Belle her jaw. It was impossible to remove the tumor or a part of her jaw had to be removed as well. And that wasn’t an option for Belle anymore. Even if it had been an option, the chances that the tumor would grow back were very high due to the very high aggressiveness of the tumor.

88 comments

  • J Talbot

    Thank you for sharing. I, too, knew when my dog was ready to go. Our love for our animals is deep and will last for all eternity. You and Belle will be together one day and she can still feel your love.

  • Kris Nicolai

    ????
    Irene…..
    Vanmorgen zei ik al – toen we wandelden in ‘t zonnetje – tegen Happy, dat lieve Kleine Belle als 3 weken ‘n engeltje, ‘n sterretje is….
    Toen je 3 weken geleden de laatste foto’s plaatste, zag ik meteen de totale overgave van Little Belle, die jij nu ook beschrijft. Zij vertrouwde letterlijk blindelings op jou, maar ze gaf ook zelf heel duidelijk aan dat ‘t op was….
    Zij wist dat jij voor ‘n onmogelijke opgave stond, dus liet ze jou merken….. mama Irene, het is goed geweest….
    Ze wou je ‘t afscheid nemen makkelijker maken, op haar heel eigen manier, de lieve schat….
    Nauwelijks te geloven hoe ‘n geliefd huisdier toch zo op hun heel bijzonder te kennen geven wat in ze omgaat ….

  • Rebecca Tilley

    It must have been so hard for u that day lrene to say good bye to your beautiful little angle we all love her so very much she is resting in peace now and she will allways love u and belle with u were ever u are she be looking down at you say thaks for every thing u did for her and all the love u give her she was a very special little girl that we all love dearly and miss so very much God bless you rest in peace beautiful friend love allways rebecca xxx❤❤

  • Emma Collins

    Dearest Irene,
    Your words express so beautifully your last days with Belle. Our precious ones do have a way of communicating with us in a very unique and special way- you listened to Belle and carried out her every wish. I’m sorry you’ve had so many questions about Belle’s health. All that matters is that you did everything you could for her, right until the very end. The love you both shared is so very clear to see and I truly hope the love Belle spread across the world brings you some small comfort. My heart is still with you. Emma. xx

  • Betsy

    Thank you so much Irene. You were truly loved by Belle and I know you felt the same about her. Lots of love❤️?❤️?

  • Linda

    ???? thinking of you x

  • Lucillr

    Oh, Irene, thank for sharing your last days. I understand, as it has been only 8 weeks since I had to make that decision with my 17 yr old Emma. She was just so sick and suddenly got worse. I knew and she knew as she cuddled so close to me. You have made a connection with people all over the world with your stories and adventures with little Belle. I wil be praying and thinking of you forever. I hope that you can leave Little Belle’s page up for us to visit.

  • karen

    so sorry, we lost a 15 month old lab Rocky to an aggressive form of cancer that caused a tumor to grow in his mouth. It was so hard to say goodbye. HUGS

  • Robert McQuaid

    We know or loved ones and develop a sense of their needs. As a part of my job I was blessed to have a K 9 partner for 5 years, and another 5 years after his retirement. He developed an aggressive brain tumor and after too short a period of time it was obvious he needed to be released from his disease. On a Good Friday evening I was with him as he crossed the “Rainbow Bridge “. As he passed on, I heard an unearthly sound in the room ( I soon realized the sound was sounds of grief coming from me ). I will NEVER forget “Sam” or his golden brown eyes, how his shining black fur turned gray with age or how he would support me as I began to walk after back surgery. So to you I say, you did well for your friend. To little Belle, thank you for bringing so many people together. If you can; do me a favor tell “Sam” I will see him when the time is right and I will bring his favorite tennis ball so we can catch up on what we’ve been doing.

  • Lenie

    Dank je wel Irene voor het delen ?

  • thivat olivia

    Chère Irène
    Merci de partager avec nous ce que vous avez vécu même si lire tout cela me fait pleurer encore et encore, je savais bien que cette décision vous la prendriez ensemble, elle me manque et parfois dans la journée quand je n’arrive pas à faire quelque chose je lui dis “Belle un petit coup de main s’il te plaît” Tant pis si j’ai l’air bête mais je crois en leur présence à tous.
    Merci aussi à Paula que je ne connais pas .
    Petit amour de Belle dans mes pensées pour toujours

  • Cathy G Perniciaro

    Dear Irene.
    You and Belle were so close. I am so happy that you got to spend the last few days of her little life together like that. As I sat her reading this i had tears coming down my face. I know if I were to lose my love, Red, at this time in my life I would be deeply crushed. I know the time will come one day, because Red is 12 years old, but she is the love of my life. You should have no regrets. You gave Belle everything she would not have had without you. She was your child, as Red is mine. I feel like we are family with all the things you posted and I pray for you every night that Belle looks over you. Please do not give up her page. Would love to keep up with you and Belle’s family. God be with you and give you happier days.

  • Annie Barton

    Hello Irene,
    Sending you love and hugs and heartfelt thanks for giving Belle the love she so deserved. I so wish you had found each other sooner, much sooner.
    I’m sobbing as I write this as I can imagine your pain having lost fur babies myself. I have never gone through what you have and are still going through.
    Please, when you feel you can, write a book or books on your adventures with Belle from the the very beginning. We need these Irene,
    Take care,
    Lots of love
    Annie xxx

  • Marie-Josee

    Thank you so much Irene for sharing the last moments of Little Belle with you. She was a very happy little girl. I’m sure I’m not the only one that really appreciates to hear how loved and happy our little warrior was. Little Belle made me see how life was beautiful !! Thank you Irene, Little Belle’s mom !! ?

    Marie-Josee

  • Paulette Nolan

    You are a special lady
    Many of us can not listen and feel our fogsemotuons .
    You did.
    Every time I have read or seen a pic my heart is happy and sad.
    I have a smile and a tear
    I love your soul
    I love Little Belle’s soul
    doG Bless

  • Elizabeth Peeler

    Dear Irene,
    Thank you so much for sharing this with us! I am still praying for you and your wonderful family! I lost my wonderful cat Thomas to bone cancer several years ago. He had it in his hip and leg first and we had to remove his whole rear leg. He got better for about 6 months and then the cancer returned FULL FORCE in his jaw! It was heart breaking to watch his beautiful face morph into what looked like The Elephant Man’s face! It was so hard to watch and know there was nothing the vet and also a specialist doctor could do short of removing the entire side of his face. And in the end, Thomas let me know when he was ready to let go and cross The Rainbow Bridge! My heart and prayers go out to you Irene! And thank you so much for sharing your precious journey with Little Belle with all of us! We are greatly blessed!!! Love, Elizabeth Peeler

  • Jennifer Collins

    Dearest Irene. We all love our pets but for you and Little Belle there was a very special bond that can never be broken. How happy I am that Little Belle was able to experience so much love after the terrible start she had. You filled six years of Little Belle’s life with a lifetime of love and adventures; and the wonderful thing about Little Belle is that she shared all her adventures and opened her heart so that thousands of poor souls across the world could taste a little of what she had.

    We know Little Belle never suffered because you were able to wait and let her tell you when she was ready to walk across the rainbow bridge and be at rest in the hands of God. You were Little Belle’s angel and now she’s yours.

    God bless you Irene.

  • Gail Coates

    So sorry for your loss of beautiful Belle. It’s so hard to deal with the loss of you’re beautiful fur babies. It doesn’t sink in for a while. You just feel so numb and helpless. Belle has always been a lovely, little brave girl and I know you are so proud of her. You gave her the happiness she so longed for. She certainly didn’t deserve the troubles she had. I love to still watch Belle on her videos, but end up crying. Just keep thinking of happy memories with Belle and how you made her happy and how much Belle made you happy. Belle would want that.

  • Nella

    Zo moeilijk dit…. maar voor haar beter, hoe moeilijk dat ook voor jou is. Helaas weet ik hoe jij je voelt. Belle is dichter bij je dan ooit❤️ Je hebt alles voor haar gedaan

  • Steve Robertson

    Thank you Irene, that must have been so hard to write. My dog passed when I was 23. Whisky was 15 when he went, I was so lucky to have him in my s life. He had cancer that started with one growth and the vet told us it was just a matter of time. 3 weeks later we had to let him go. He had over 10 growths. This is the first time I have ever typed anything about his passing and it is so hard even after all these years. Just be happy that you helped your wonderful Belle for the years you did. Thank you for loving her and helping her.

  • Amber

    Thank you for sharing. Im so saddened still. I continue to pray for your heart Irene. We all love you and loved that sweet inspiration Little Belle!

  • Brenda Rogers

    Dearest Irene, you and little Belle have left a lasting impression on all who have lost our beloved dogs. The memories that we shared with them never leave us. I know your heart is breaking and will for a very long time. Little Belle
    Was indeed special but she never let her handicap stop her from enjoying all the beauty that was hers to discover.
    You need not feel that you let her down or made the wrong decision in letting her go. She lives in all of of us and will
    Never be forgotten, that you can know for sure. Continue to bless us with updates as we still care deeply. Feel free
    To be in contact if this helps you get through this difficult time. Sending love to you….Brenda from Canada?

  • Peggy Johnson

    Dearest Irene …

    I am so sad reading this post and I can understand the loss even more because my beautiful grandpup, Scooter, passed away early Mother’s Day morning. He suffered a seizure and died on the way to the vet’s office at 2:30 am. He was only four and a crazy boy. We loved him dearly and he truly loved his grandma. He was always so happy and excited to see me and I was the only babysitter her pets ever had whenever my daughter, husband and baby went away on a trip. She also has a pug, Yogi and two cats, Robin & Jodie. Scooter was a mini aussie shepherd…absolutely gorgeous baby. The loss is devastating, we are heartbroken and he will be missed each and every day….our funny boy.

    This came after the loss of precious Little Belle which left me heartbroken even tho’ she lived miles away and we never met but that didn’t stop me from loving her dearly. Whether the passing is unexpected like Scooter or the decision is left to the person who loves them most like Belle …it is truly one of the hardest things in life to lose a part of your family and our fur babies are definitely our family. I don’t know which is worse but I am happy both our precious pups died in the arms of someone who loved them.

    Thank you for writing this difficult post and for keeping Little Belle’s memory alive in all our hearts. I hope each day brings you a little more peace with all those beautiful memories of your little warrior girl. Our babies are now resting in a wonderful place and I truly believe they will be waiting for us when it is our time to leave this earth….only they will be happy and healthy when they greet us with that same unconditional love showered on us when they were alive.

    I send love and hugs to you Irene, Little Belle’s true angel.

  • Elisa

    Bonsoir
    J aurais aime pouvoir lire mais en anglais et je suis française
    Bien à vous !!!!

  • Van Der Eecken Nancy

    Wat een sterke vrouw ben je toch Irene om alles met ons te delen . Zelfs wanneer je nog in diepe rouw bent voor Belleke . Belleke heeft je te kennen gegeven dat het voor haar genoeg was , dat is toch een teken dat ze zich volledig overgaf aan jou . Haar reddende engel toen je haar opnam in je gezinnetje en weer haar reddende engel omdat je het mogelijk gemaakt hebt om haar niet te laten lijden . Hoe zeer dit pijn ook doet jij hebt haar geholpen . En nu waakt zij over jou . Ben ik rotsvast van overtuigd . Veel sterkte nog

  • anita rebel

    Wat er was,is er nog steeds en zal er altijd zijn.
    Onvoorwaardelijke liefde.Dat heeft jullie wereld er een
    stuk mooier op gemaakt.Dank voor het delen van dit
    verhaal weer.

  • Debby Esquivel

    You didn’t have to explain Irene. I knew you would still have your little girl if you could. When they can’t do for themselves, that’s when we have to let go. When they don’t strive anymore. My Andy got sick all of a sudden. He couldn’t stand. We took him to the vet and they wanted to keep him for tests. They called us after the first set of X-rays. They found a large tumor in his chest pushing against his heart. Inoperable. The same day we took him in we had to let him go. It’s devastating. They are our babies. I understand, and you never have to explain anything.

  • Rossillol

    Ton récit encore une fois m’a fait pleurer Irène ,tu expliques si bien et tes mots sont si doux et même si je savais que tu avais pris la bonne décision , j’avais aussi besoin de savoir comment c’était arrivé….J’ai vécu ça 2 fois déjà ce sont les journées les pires de ma vie , devoir décider que ce petit être que l’on aime de tout son coeur , de toute son âme doit partir alors que l’on voudrait une seule chose : le garder pour toujours prés de nous…C’est terriblement éprouvant
    Chaque jour je vais sur ta page FB , à mon réveil et aprés encore plusieurs fois , je ne peux imaginer que Belle n’est plus la….C’est bien pour nous aussi que tu nous racontes comment cela s’est passé afin que nous puissions y croire vraiment
    Et merci Irène pour tout ce que tu as donné à Belle mais aussi pour avoir bien voulu nous la “prêter” un peu et merci de continuer encore et enfin merci à toi petite Belle qui a embelli nos vies, fait grandir notre humanité et merci aussi de nous avoir donné de ton courage tellement énorme.. MERCI

  • Darlene Belanger

    Irene, I am so touched by the incredible love you and Belle had for each other. There is a special bond between a mom and her fur babies. My Lexie was 15 when we had to put her down. One morning she came by my bedside and just laid her head on my side of the bed and stared at me with herbig brown eyes. Her nose was bleeding. That was it. I called my husband at work and told him it was time. The love we shared will always be with us as your love with Bellewill last into eternity. Some times at night can almost hear her walking down the hallway. Thank you for sharing this it means alto to me and many other animal lovers. I have only k own Belle for about2 months but I fell in love with her beauty, her spirit and her ability to be so loving after 12 years in a cage breeding. You Irene brought meaning into her life and the love she so desperately needed and did not get the first 12 years. How proud you must be that God gave her to you to love. Have a blessed day Irene and thank you again for being the wonderful caring person that you are. HUGS !!!

  • Laura

    Thank you for sharing Little Belle’s story and taking us along your journeys with you.

    You truly are a special person and Little Belle was and always will be the strong Little Warrior. Just imagine when you are reunited and she can see you, how wonderful that will be.

    Thank you Irene

  • Deb Higuera Olander

    Dear Irene, Thank you for sharing what you could of those last few days. I never knew about Belle until she popped up on my FB page one day in January, She was so precious I had to look further so I went to her FB and became a follower with 38,000 others. From that very 1st day I fell in love with her and your entire family. Unfortunately as Belle said in her letter to you from Heaven, you two are famous and that doesn’t leave a lot of time for personal space or privacy. For that, we are truly sorry because this should be a very private time for you. I do know how hard it is for you to share these most private moments with the world and I feel your struggle and pain every day. You are a Warrior also Irene-just like Little Belle and have brought real Magic to us. Thank you for your gift of words, your caring and humble sprit and for sharing your Little Belle with us. Our world is so much brighter for it!

  • Ann Topp

    Irene I feel your pain so much. You did your utmost best for Belle and she will have known this. All the world loves her and misses her adventures every day. She was very lucky girl to have you for her mom. Keep strong Irene. Time is a great healer. I know this, I had my Storm, my little Jack Russel for 17 years and my little Gizmo poodle for 11 years. I hope they find your Belle , I know they will look after her. love and hugs for you all.

  • Leslie Morley

    It is true that when you share a bond as deeply as yours and Little Belle’s that you know when it is time to say goodbye. I admire your strength and unselfishness in doing what was needed to help her go to a place where she no longer has pain. Thank you so much for sharing your beautiful relationship with your little angel. It has warmed my heart and lifted my spirits.

  • Suzi

    Thank you Irene for sharing this with all of Little Belle’s friends. After reading your post I was struck by two things – One….how terribly sad the situation was and Two…. how beautiful and loving your last day together was. You have always done your best and given your heart to Little Belle…. and she knew that!

  • Susan Brundage

    I love you and your family more everyday. You have a beautiful heart and mind. I think about you and Belle often and will keep you in my prayers. I love my two further children and hope to give them as beautiful life, that you gave Belle. My best always.

  • Anne Lane

    I’ve put “hearts” on FB Irene, but not really commented, just to say I shared both your’s and Belle’s birthday….I did think of you both that day, and sent a special prayer your way. You do a wonderful job putting such an emotional time into words, your happy days were easier, now your sad days, oh so hard, but it is a way of gradually “letting go”, perhaps for all of us that followed Little Belle’s story. I seem to “get” older dogs in my life, and when you have nurtured them through their old age and get that connection, because we listen to them, they do tell us when it is time, be it is ever so hard, but I find the dogs have a special acceptance and peace about them, that really touches my heart and certainly helps me at their end…they tell me it’s okay…and thank you for loving me so much. I pray that you can soon find that special peace, without the grief Irene, and memories of Belle will be filled with joy rather than mingled with the sadness you are feeling right now. Sending love vibes your way, Annie L

  • Jill

    Irene – Thank you so much for sharing. I know Belle’s passing must still be very hard on you. On day at a time. You will always miss her, but it will get a little easier as time goes on. Thank you again.

  • Karen

    Helping our babies leave is the hardest decision of all. When you love them with all your heart and soul, and they love you the same, they trust us to do what’s best for them. They know that we know what is best for them.
    She was as lucky to have you, as you were to have her.
    RIP Belle,
    Irene, you and Belle’s journey has touched me to my very core. I know exactly how you feel.
    You will meet again, and she will be whole, and happy and healthy.❤️

  • Robin

    Sobbing, just heartbreaking. You meant the world to each other.

  • Susan Rundall

    I am facing this now with my little Peanut. Not cancer, but diabetes, weakness, now blindness. She is 13 and looks much like Belle! I have always “known” when my animals are so very tired. I feel it will be the same with her. I rescued her when she was 9, and also have another rescue dog, Sniglet, and 3 rescue cats. I have also fostered 13 dogs. I am thankful you and Belle had the best times together. Although memories can make us happy, they can also tear at our hearts at any given time. Stay strong, Irene. And I hope your health is doing well. You and Belle touched my ❤️! Thank you for sharing your story. You are in my thoughts and prayers and I send you all, including your other fur babies, lots of hugs! I am sure they miss her too!!

  • Thomas McMullen

    Thank you for sharing this. Belle knew you loved her and was trying to give you one last day doing the things you both loved. She gave you one last memorable day. Always keep that in your heart. You will see each other again some day but she wanted to thank you in her own way for making her life better. And to let you know that it was time. She knew you would take care of her friends and love them as much as she did. Find peace in that.

  • Faye from Las Vegas

    Hi Irene, Belle’s mom,

    I have been following Belle and you ….all things that you’re doing. I missed the beginning of her journey and how and where you adopted but I able to go back and read all your post.

    I just want you to know that I fall in love with Belle, with both of your journey together. I miss seeing your post with Belle taking her everywhere but I know that she is in a better plain with no pain….maybe she’ll meet my Ollie, Jaxx and Nikki and they will play with her.

    You given Belle an unconditional love that she deserve and I’m so touched of your story…. every time I read your post, I can feel my tears falling down through my face. Thank you for sharing Belle with us and thank you that God have a way of blessing you with such a sweetheart dog. Again thank you for allowing us to be part of you and Belle’s journey

  • claire capitano lowe

    My dear Irene, I know exactly what you felt at the end. I always said my baby will tell me when it is time. Our vet tried to warn me time was running out. I told him I wasn’t ready to le our Cassy go. So he too left it up to me. On her final day, she too refused any food which we were using a syringe to feed her. Then she looked at me and gave one bark. She also had a heart murmer. I had one of my baby’s who also had a heart murmer die in my arms on the way to the hospital. I didn’t want to have that feeling again. So to me her bark was, please help me, I am tired and don’t want anymore of my injections for Diabetees, please help me. It was that quick that my husband and I said to each other, okay she’s telling me, I love you and will miss you but I am so tired. We took pictures of us with her and some video. I still have a hard time looking at those pictures. So to you I say, you and she most certainly picked the day and time. You gave her so much to take with her, the sea, the sea air, the beautiful sky. Perfect! We all need time to accept the loss of someone special. For you, it was Little Belle, for me, it was my Cassy. God Bless you and Little Belle.

  • ElaineElaine Arendsen

    Dear Irene,
    Those last days will always hold a special place in your heart. My fur baby did the same thing looking at me with those tired eyes telling me she was ready to go. It is never easy to say goodbye for now, but in our hearts, we know it is the best and right thing to do. One day you and Little Belle will be together again. The joy and happiness will always be in your heart. The tears may come from time to time, but that’s okay. It has been six months for us, and I still have tears now and then when I think of her. They are so precious and give such tremendous unconditional love and devotion that will always be a part of us. May He keep both of you in His loving arms today, tomorrow, and forever.

  • Helena Hexspoor

    Dearest Irene and the rest of the family (all puppies included) Thank you for sharing Little Belle and her brothers and sisters with us all. I shall miss her adventures, but know she is in heaven. You are such a remarkable person for loving her enough that she was able to spend her last days with those who loved her as much as she love you all. I hope the memories you have will comfort you in the days and weeks ahead. God bless you Irene!

  • Linda Dieter

    Dear Irene, I am so sorry for your pain and tremendous loss of Little Belle. The bond between you both transcends time. You were so connected and this is how you knew the time was right. You knew her so well and she you. So sad she has left this earth. She is in a better place but we miss her presence in our earthly world.

    I like to think of her now running through fields of tulips, able to see their beauty as well as enjoy their fragrance. I know her siblings who have passed before her are joyful to reunite with her. She is whole, no longer cancer ridden.

    She carries the love you lavished on her in her heart. What a wonderful gift you gave her Irene. It will comfort her until you meet again. Her spirit is still with you and I have no doubt that Little Belle is watching over you just like you’ve watched over her. You are her everything, her loving Mom?

  • Rick Willett

    So sad, yet so beautiful. I hope you can take some comfort in knowing that you gave her the best time of her life, Irene. No one could have loved little Belle more than you. At least she found out and experienced what being apart of a loving family was like before she departed. Thank you for taking care of and loving her. ??❤

  • Yuri

    Dear Irene, even to the very last minute you showed your Little Belle the love and care that she always had with you…I know that her departure was peaceful and filled with love…she knows that you look out for her until the end…now she is looking over you until the day… that very magical day when you both will reunite again…and that will be FOREVER! ???

  • Dawn Taylor

    Irene, you are an amazing person and Little Belle was so blessed to have been saved by you. You have both touched my heart in a very special way that will last forever.

  • AnnAnnW Smith

    What a treasure Little Belle is, what a treasure you had in Little Belle and she in you. Such a love and bond that few have, human and Furry ones. A love and bond that will last for all eternity. Little Belle is still with you and will always be with you, in your heart, in your thoughts, in your life. It is hard to let our Sweet Ones go but it is the love that we have that we have to let them go. Little Belle understood, she knew, she loves you so much for helping her. You rescued Little Belle and the Earthly Life you both shared will never be gone, remember and speak of Little Belle with smiles, laughs, and yes, tears. You gave her the best life of all. A life that is an inspiration to so many. May God Bless you Irene and I thank you for loving and caring for such a Precious Sweet Little Belle. Prayers and hugs wrapped in much love for you and much love to Little Belle. Thank you for sharing your life and Little Belle’s life with me, and us, Your and Little Belle’s Facebook Family. I love you both.

  • Stephanie Kott

    Dear Irene,
    Thank you so much for sharing your story with all of the world these past years. You have been such an inspiration to me and so many other people.. I always looked forward to your post with Little Belle
    . She was loved by everyone who knew her and her incredible story. Your love for her was what has made you who you are today. You had a connection with her like no other. She will always be with you..forever. I know how painful this has been for you and your family. Take your time with your healing process. When your ready to share more, we will be here for you. I lost my precious Jules 6 months ago, and I still greive for him everyday. He was such apart of my whole life. I lived for him and the unconditional love we shared. My heart and prayers are with you everyday. You are a very strong women and Belle was a very strong warrior!!! ?????????????

  • Monica (Mo) Prunk

    My Dear Lady, kind soul… there is no need to provide any further explanations. Bless your beautiful heart and soul for giving Sweet Belle the best possible life ever!! Your journey has not been in vane..
    Blessings and peace to you
    xoxoMo ?

  • Denise

    Thank god she had you at a time so crucial. She was able to have a little piece and be loved as the precious little angel she is.

  • Helgaa

    Zoals Belle al die jaren je heeft kunnen ‘vertellen’ wat ze wilde, hoe ze zich voelde, wat ze beleefde, zo heeft ze ook nu aan je duidelijk kunnen maken dat het goed was. Haar leventje was voltooid, haar taak op aarde volbracht. Nu was ze nodig aan de andere kant en ze liet je weten dat het zover was. Dank je wel voor het delen van dit wonderbaarlijke, moeilijke en tegelijk mooie moment.

  • Joanna Marshall

    Irene,
    I do not know what to say as we all know how much you loved Little Belle and that you are absolutely heartbroken.
    Thanks for sharing Little Belle with us as we too loved her and fully understand your loss. You must be devastated but you did what you had to do as the kind loving person that you are.
    I am so so sorry Belle had to leave so suddenly but she will always be with you ♡
    Irene please take comfort in the womderful happy times you gave her after she had such a sad start in life. You gave that wee girl sooooo much love and you gave her a life full to the brim with happiness ♡
    Look after yourself Irene we are all here for you and thinking of you
    Much Love
    JoJo xxxxx

  • Puck Deerman

    Lieve Irene,

    Wat heb je dit weer prachtig opgeschreven. Wat gaat de tijd toch snel, de kleine dappere Belle is alweer 3 weken een krachtig stralende ster aan de hemel.
    Liefs uit Hoofddorp.

  • Maria van den Brink

    How beautifully written this, dear Irene. So heartbreaking, because I can sense all the feelings you had and still have. And the feelings that precious little girl had. It must have been so hard for her to let you know that she had to go.
    “If love could have cured her, she never would have died”.

    I’m with you in heart and mind.

  • joJo

    Irene and family, you have taught us much about what it is to be human, what it is to love, and what it is to care so deeply for your best friend. Thank you for honesty and your compassion….. and for walking with Bella as she experienced a new life and was able to share that with us through you all. The world is a better place because of you, Bella, your partner and Bella’s doggie friends/family. I wonder how they are coping without Bella in their midst. Travel well Irene, you need to show yourself the same compassion and hope you showed Bella.

  • Poi Poh Wong

    Dear Irene, Little Belle would always remember you for taking such good care of her since she left the horrible puppy mill…She still could feel the love you have given her though she had crossed the rainbow bridge. Please take good care of yourself, Irene.

  • Betty Cole

    Irene, I don’t know that you ever had the opportunity to read the article that I have posted below but wanted to shared it with you in the event that you hadn’t in hope that it would give you the peace that it has so often given to me when I think of all the dogs I have lost and hold dear within my heart.
    The experience of losing a dog is universal for every pet parent. If these wise words help you, or someone you know, even if just a little, then this article has served its purpose.

    This article was originally published on DogHeirs.com and republished here on Reshareworthy.com with permission.

    Ernest Montague told DogHeirs, “I wrote this several years ago in memory of Bolo, a black and white Pit Bull who would always go for a walk, right up to the day he died. He might only get 15 feet before he stopped and looked at me and gave me the look: ‘I can’t go any further. But don’t you think for one minute I’m done walking.’”
    Some of you, particularly those who think they have recently lost a dog to ‘death’, don’t really understand this. I’ve had no desire to explain, but won’t be around forever and must.
    Dogs never die. They don’t know how to. They get tired, and very old, and their bones hurt. Of course they don’t die. If they did they would not want to always go for a walk, even long after their old bones say: ‘No, no, not a good idea. Let’s not go for a walk.’ Nope, dogs always want to go for a walk. They might get one step before their aging tendons collapse them into a heap on the floor, but that’s what dogs are. They walk.
    It’s not that they dislike your company. On the contrary, a walk with you is all there is. Their boss, and the cacophonic symphony of odor that the world is. Cat poop, another dog’s mark, a rotting chicken bone (exultation), and you. That’s what makes their world perfect, and in a perfect world death has no place.
    However, dogs get very very sleepy. That’s the thing, you see. They don’t teach you that at the fancy university where they explain about quarks, gluons, and Keynesian economics. They know so much they forget that dogs never die. It’s a shame, really. Dogs have so much to offer and people just talk a lot.
    When you think your dog has died, it has just fallen asleep in your heart. And by the way, it is wagging its tail madly, you see, and that’s why your chest hurts so much and you cry all the time. Who would not cry with a happy dog wagging its tail in their chest. Ouch! Wap wap wap wap wap, that hurts. But they only wag when they wake up. That’s when they say: ‘Thanks Boss! Thanks for a warm place to sleep and always next to your heart, the best place.’
    When they first fall asleep, they wake up all the time, and that’s why, of course, you cry all the time. Wap, wap, wap. After a while they sleep more. (remember, a dog while is not a human while. You take your dog for walk, it’s a day full of adventure in an hour. Then you come home and it’s a week, well one of your days, but a week, really, before the dog gets another walk. No WONDER they love walks.)
    Anyway, like I was saying, they fall asleep in your heart, and when they wake up, they wag their tail. After a few dog years, they sleep for longer naps, and you would too. They were a GOOD DOG all their life, and you both know it. It gets tiring being a good dog all the time, particularly when you get old and your bones hurt and you fall on your face and don’t want to go outside to pee when it is raining but do anyway, because you are a good dog. So understand, after they have been sleeping in your heart, they will sleep longer and longer.
    But don’t get fooled. They are not ‘dead.’ There’s no such thing, really. They are sleeping in your heart, and they will wake up, usually when you’re not expecting it. It’s just who they are.
    I feel sorry for people who don’t have dogs sleeping in their heart. You’ve missed so much. Excuse me, I have to go cry now.”
    This article was originally published on DogHeirs.com and republished here on Reshareworthy.com with permission.

    Read more at http://www.reshareworthy.com/dogs-never-die-they-sleep-in-your-heart/#YGlWToMJm4amUKzE.99

  • Veronica

    So sorry for your loss. Appreciate you sharing Belle’s last day.

  • Stefanie Morris

    Thank you sooo much for sharing this with us all, I know in my heart how hard that must of been for you and Robert.
    But love never dies it only gets stronger, and so you will again. We will all be here for no matter how long you need to heal as we are all family now and that’s what families do.
    Stefanie Morris

  • Hilary Ledingham

    Oh Irene, I’m so so sorry for the loss of sweet Little Belle. Through my tears I thank you so much for sharing your lives with us. You have brought so much joy to others, and although it’s hard to accept the loss of such an innocent sweet loving creature, she did have a wonderful life in the end. It was clear that your love and devotion gave her much peace and happiness. God bless you Irene and may angels smile on you precious little one. <3

  • Lorena Quel

    Irene , I’m sorry for your loss, although I don’t you know personally I share your pain, Little Belle was a wonderful and an inspiring doggie, I love her so much . Thank you for giving her a home full of love and adventures, I’m 100 % sure that she enjoyed it very much and she will always love you and be at your side taking care of you. God bless you and thank you for share with us the wonderful life of Little Belle ❤❤

  • Carol W.

    I just found you and your Little Belle’s story this morning. Oh how I wish it could have been when you two first met.
    Right now I am wiping away my tears. A love like you and Belle had together is something I know you will treasure until the day you reunite at the ? Rainbow Bridge❣️

  • Sharon Butler

    True love. Thank you Irene for being there to rescue little Belle. Big hugs ??? she will always be near you.

  • June Wilson

    They are with us for only a short time. They have our heart and all our love. We cry when they leave but remember them in time with only love and laughter. You were such a good Mom to her. Thanks for giving her a time with love, she deserved it.

  • Susan Thaxton

    Irene, I am so, so sorry you and Little Belle had to go through that and you had to lose her in that way. My heart is breaking as I just saw her video and found out she passed. I have loved and lost many dogs, one to a tumor also, but I know the love you have for Little Belle is equal to the love I have for my Olive. She is my soul mate and the love of my life. I can’t imagine ever losing her. It’s already August and I am sure your heart is still breaking over losing Little Belle. She was so beautiful. Thank you so much for loving her and giving her the quality of life she always deserved. I will say a special prayer for you and Little Belle and I know in my heart you will be together again one day. My love to you and Little Belle.

  • Carole Clarke

    I recently came across Belle’s story and was so touched by the love between Irene and this sweet little dog. Belle and Irene were soulmates and their story should be published so everyone can read about a life transformed by love. Thank you for sharing Belle’s journey.

  • Susan Richards

    Oh my word I’m sobbing such a wonderful life you gave little Belle and are giving your other furbabies I’ve only just found you’re little Belle page n hadn’t realised till now shes gone I saw the post where a lady sent tulips for her it’s obvious she was sooooo loved take care n thank you for the life she ended with xxxx

  • Nilsa Guslawski

    Dear Irene, thank you so much for sharing your beautiful Belle with us.
    Because of your loving care Belle was able to have a beautiful life after so much suffering as a puppy. I know she loved you very much as well.
    Someday when the time is right and God calls you home you will be reunited with Belle and you both will have nothing but happiness, health and that wonderful love you shared with each other on earth. God bless you Belle and Rest In Peace.?♥️

  • Sue

    I left you that message and I didn’t know she passed and then I read what you wrote and I’m bawling my eyes out and can’t finish reading so sorry for your loss I have five dogs myself and I love them so much. I lost 2 a couple years ago. It’s so hard. One that I had to put down she was in so much pain and as I’m crying and I’m hugging her before they put her down she’s licking my tears and I didn’t think about of then until it was all over with I realize that she was trying to comfort me. It’s nice to see somebody who’s awesome to their pets .

  • Katie

    Thank you for giving her the love that she should have been given her entire life. I know how hard it is to let go and say goodbye. Good luck with your adventures. God bless you and all your little babies.

  • Marilyn Larson

    I just came across Little Belle’s story. And looking up her face book page was when I found you had lost her almost 2 years ago. I know how much you must still miss her. I Am So so sorry for your loss, just here with my 4 dogs crying my eyes out sorry for your loss & for all the pain she had at the end & during her early years. But oh so thankful you had each other for the years you had together! You were both blessed and I know you will be together again.

  • Earlene Leonard

    Every time I read about u and little belle my heart breaks all over again. Then the flood of tears.im so happy u had her and made her life worth living and was so good to her.she knew u loved her and she was special.im sure she’s well and happy now in heaven or puppy heaven seeing all the beauty and will know u when she sees u again ???

  • Debbie hoskinson

    I know what it’s like to lose a dog you love and saying bye, it’s the hardest thing to do. There your family. I’m so sorry I’m sure it was hard for you. You had to say bye to your lil angel and belle said bye to her angel on earth to be with more in heaven. Til you both meet again in heaven, may your memories keep you strong. Thank you so much for sharing your story.

  • Robin Moore

    I am so so sorry for your loss. This is the first time I’ve read her story and I’m crying for her heartache that what she went thru but then she met her mom Irene. I’m so glad that you were able to take her away from her old life and gave her a new life with lil pals to be with. I will continue to follow her story and the stories of the other ones who you have rescued.

  • Dianne Hall

    I read this for the first time today. We lost our Meg February 14 2018 from nasal cancer.
    She lived for almost a year after her diagnosis
    however it finally broke through her skull and we had to say goodbye. She too had been full of life until the very end.
    Thanks for sharing your love and feeling for Little Belle. It’s like you read my heart

  • Walt

    I’m in tears over this angel , I lost my belle of 16 years just 2 months ago and it’s left a hole in my heart . I can’t imagine the pain you feel but I do have a sense . God bless you for the love you have in you . It’s people like you that make the world better . God bless you and all your babies .

  • Bobby turner

    My heart is broken.Im 68 yr old lady in NZIve only just started on Facebook about 3 mths ago.Tonight I came upon this post about a beautiful little dog and the lady who saved her.It was so sad but beautiful,that she got her life back,even tho she lost the sight in both eyes.I watched her video then quickly looked for her Facebook page only to find I was too late,she had died.Im crying while I write this.I just heard about her but I loved her.She was a brave wee soul.Im so glad she has such a wonderful mum.You my dear,are an angel!

  • Cheryl

    My heart breaks for you, she was ready and I feel this. I had a the sweetest kitty ever Rocco… he lived with us for so many years 12 or so, then he was with the next human who loved him with all her heart as well. Rocco also has a jaw/tongue tumor. It would grow then steroids would reduce it, but eventually it could not be treated any more. I know Rocco would tell you he had the best life ever, so much fun, so much love. We miss him so much. God bless Belle in doggy heave and you on earth.

  • linda addis

    What a beuatiful and very sad story I am still crying It broke my heart I lost a shihtzu to oral cancer also and know the pain you felt You are truly a wonderful and caring person God Bless You

  • Charles

    Thank you for sharing her with us.

    Your bond remains unbroken

    And though she’s gone, it seems

    She will live forever in your heart

    And she’ll visit you in dreams.

  • Natasha

    I just read this and I’m all in tears of course… I’ve been following her profile on instagram since recently and loving it! Thank you Irene for giving them the best home ❤

  • cathy acayan

    I still cry everytime I read about little belle’s journey. Truly heartbreaking but happy she found her forever home with you and was still able to enjoy life. Thank you for all the love and care for all the furbabies Irene♥️

  • Kevin Guerrero

    Hi.

    I only heard about Little Belle today as a FB group shared her video – so sorry for your loss. About 3 years ago I lost my dog Corky to Cancer in very similar circumstances. For being 17½ years old, he was still in good physical shape (though suffering from CCD) but he got a tumour in his upper mouth/nose. Like Little Belle, it was inoperable as it would require removing most of his jaw and nasal area in a big operation (that, at his age, he might not survive) and spend at least 6 months recovering and need to be syringe-fed the rest of his life. I didn’t think it was fair to him to live out the rest of his days like that (especially with his cognitive decline and his age meaning he might die of something else even before he finished recovery) just because I didn’t want to let go. We laser-surgeried off as much of the tumour that was exposed in his mouth that made it hard for him to eat… but it grew back aggressively. Even worse, it grew up into his nose and inwards. But like you, I had to make the call of when to do it – so I set it just into my holiday, so I could spend the last weekend pampering him. It was hard because he was still so lively up until that point but, like Little Belle, that weekend I noticed a sudden change – he was so tired. Just wanted to sleep in my arms all the time. Letting him go was the hardest and most painful thing I’ve ever done, but it was the right call. As was yours.

    The final act of love we can do for them is ensuring they don’t suffer and pass away peacefully in the arms of someone who loves them.

    RIP Corky and Little Belle.

  • Rachel

    Words can not express the beauty of this story.

Leave a Reply to Elizabeth Peeler Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Social media & sharing icons powered by UltimatelySocial